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Original poster

"Holiday" with toddlers

108 replies

RaisingFlames · 04/05/2024 15:55

I've just returned from a week in the sun with DH and our 2 DS (3 & 2). I honestly feel more burnt out now than I did before we went. My mental health is genuinely in tatters, I'm so stressed out!

Maybe it's an age and stage thing as we've been away before and it was fine, but this time.... Constant moaning/tantrums, neither one listening to a word we said, took an hour to get out the door most days, fought sleep like it was the enemy. DH and I had no downtime at all and we were both tired and grumpy the whole time.

AIBU to think that holidays aren't worth the expense with such young kids?

OP posts:
menopausalmare · 04/05/2024 16:23

Ain't no such thing. It's a change of scenery and more work.

wast542 · 04/05/2024 16:19

I always felt at that age and even now (5&6) it's much easier on holiday. There's no timetable or rush to get anywhere and the kids can run around and have fun in the pool.

NoKnit · 04/05/2024 16:15

bluetopazlove · 04/05/2024 16:06

Yeah holidaying with kids is very full on . That said I do think they benefit from it , those memories will last a lifetime for your kids .

Except for the fact that at 2 and 3 they won't remember any of it.

Totally not unreasonable I was the same when mine were little. It does get better when they can swim and go pool themselves etc

PeloMom · 04/05/2024 16:06

Depends. At that age we either brought a relative to help out or researched places with age appropriate kids club.
some places also have a reputable nanny agency they work with and we have hired Nannies this way too during holidays. It has to feel at least a little bit as our holiday too.

bluetopazlove · 04/05/2024 16:06

Yeah holidaying with kids is very full on . That said I do think they benefit from it , those memories will last a lifetime for your kids .

Wingingit11 · 04/05/2024 16:01

Holidays with toddlers are definitely intensive ! Unless it is particularly child focussed eg activities on tap but even then - it’s a lot! 😭

needsomesunshine65 · 04/05/2024 16:00

Yep not worth it. We're skipping those types of holidays with our toddler for now.

We've done city weekends alone once a year and our DC stays with the grandparents. It's the only way to actually recharge.

BibbleandSqwauk · 04/05/2024 15:59

I just think there are so many variables you can't answer yes it no to this. It may have been that particular location / beds / temperature that just didnt work for you but another time it would be fine. I think the key is low expectations around activities, no timetable to stick to, simple clothes, meals, flexibility etc.

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